Without question, USTR Ambassador Ron Kirk's first trip to Geneva was a success. While it was clear he did not come to Geneva to lecture WTO member countries about substance, he won big points for style and charisma. His presence in Geneva was very well received.

Myron Brilliant and I were lucky enough to be in Geneva at the same time as Ambassador Kirk. It was interesting for us to meet with WTO country Ambassadors after they had met with Kirk. We heard the following words to describe Kirk: "engaging", "thoughtful" and "charismatic". Bottom line is that Kirk has earned some goodwill from many of the key trade stakeholders in Geneva. That goodwill will be very important as countries try and come together to find a way forward on the stalled Doha Round.

Ambassador Kirk spoke to some reporters before he headed to the airport to get on the same new direct United Geneva-Dulles flight that I am on. He was cautious, but clear that US leadership alone is not sufficient to get the Round back on track. He was also clear that new ideas are going to be needed if we are going to reinvigorate Doha.

Ambassador Kirk can share more about his thoughts on Doha and his Geneva trip when he speaks at the Chamber on Monday May 18. His big speech is 5 days away.